Revisiting Bangkok

It is years since we have been in Thailand. We had a wonderful short visit to break our flight to Italy but have decided that we need to return.

We didn't do much in Bangkok! We had a few spicy meals and a day out in the city mainly visiting the Royal Palace.

We arrived late from Sydney and caught the new train from the airport and two sky trains to the ferry transfer provided by the hotel. It was raining so we ended up going by their van to our hotel. We were both tired when we left as we didn't get to bed until the wee hours so slept, read and watched movies but were ready for some Thai food when we arrived.

Today after breakfast we walked down to Wat Rajsingkorn and took the commuters ferry to the city. We had planned to go to Wat Aran or The Temple of Dawn but it was wrapped in scaffolding so we went to the Grand Palace. It was a blast from the past. On  our first visit we were required to wear formal suits and clothes. Today we needed to comply with a much simpler dress code.

                                           The view from our room. The river is a busy place

We walked down to Wat Rajsingkorn  to catct the commuters ferry to the temples. Very quiet when we left early in the morning but very different on our return.

                                                      Almost a private water taxi!

                                                           Our hotel from the water.

We loved the ride in the ferry. It cost 14 Baht or about 50 cents and was as good as any tour. A little like the trip from Drummoyne into Circular Quay!

We decided to visit the Grand Palace and were so pleased that we did. It is wonderful and remains so despite the tourist throngs! We spent most of the day there!

This is a famous view as it shows the three styles of temples. From the left Burmese, Thai and Cambodian. Sorry that this does not capture the magnificent colours. Our excuse is that it was raining.

                                                                    Gail at the temples

The Emerald Buddha. You cannot take photos inside the temple but this was taken at great distance from outside! The clothing is changed according to the three seasons. This is for the hot season.

                                                   Chinese, French Thai and Burmese styles

The Grand Palace. We visited lots of Museums including a Special temporary exhibition of gems and jewellery from the Royal family.

After our visit we found a tiny restaurant and enjoyed a great lunch. The ferry trip was like any big city at peak hour but we both ended up with a seat.

This ferry stop reminded us of the Sydney Opera House on a slightly smaller scale!
It was a short but wonderful visit so much so that we expect to return soon